School Accommodation

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 April 2023

Tuesday, 18 April 2023

Questions (504)

Joan Collins

Question:

504. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Education if she will address a matter in relation to accommodation for a school (details supplied); if the prefabs will be allowed to go ahead so that the school has the needed extra space on site for September and not elsewhere; if she will find a solution that gives the school and children the space they are entitled to in the future and if the Government will follow through on its promises to children with additional needs in mainstream schools. [16715/23]

Written answers

Minister for Education

I can confirm to the Deputy, that my Department is in receipt of an application for the Additional School Accommodation (ASA) scheme from the school in question. 

My Department's Planning and Building Unit is currently assessing its work programme and priorities for 2023 in the context of its available funding. Key priorities for the Department's work programme include continuing strong delivery to support the operation of the school system with particular regard to planning ahead for the 2023/24 school year and beyond and also with particular regard to supporting special educational needs provision. 

The school in question is being considered as part of this assessment and a decision will issue to the school authorities as soon as possible in this regard. My officials have been in touch with the school in relation to this matter.